Spring felt like it was here for a bit, but the last few days were the true incarnation of April showers! I miss my afternoons of walking through the Botanic Gardens, enjoying the bright colors and beautiful spring flowers. It did remind me of this seasons’ trends since there is a big tie-in for florals and vivid colors, but of course in fashion, it’s shown with a modern touch.
Speaking of modern touches, feel free to check out my new, updated website ffh.twc-development.com/ recently redesigned by my lovely client and friend, Sue Pamment of Synergy Web Strategies.
top trends
Modern Florals ..Beautiful floral prints in both dainty clusters and bold bouquets are everywhere. I especially love these prints with a dark (black) background, and you can find them in dresses, tops and accessories like purses and scarves.
Vibrant Stripes. I’m seeing lots of vivid and colorful striped tops, dresses, pants and accessories. Always a popular spring look, it’s been updated to be especially bold and bright, and is in a variety of widths. As I’ve said before, the key to wearing stripes is to find the right placement to accentuate the positive.
Think Pink! Pretty, feminine pink in shades from soft rose to fuchsia are in focus this year. Since pink can put out a “sweet, girly vibe” I tend to prefer more sophisticated shapes with a streamlined silhouette. And of course, love pink lipsticks and blush.
Shirting…with a twist. From bankers stripes to white poplin, shirts are being redefined with all sorts of interesting details including self belts, ruffles, and wide, interesting sleeves. Complex statement sleeves are still very in and can add personality to your look. Think bell sleeves, exaggerated cuffs, or even off/cold shoulder.
Khaki update! Khaki pieces with interesting details and flattering silhouettes are everywhere. I’ve always found this color to be so versatile, and with florals, stripes and bright colors in style, this pairing is a nice way to modernize and moderate your look. I’m loving an army green linen jacket over a chambray or a floral print, an updated trenchcoat or jacket, or even an easy khaki utility dress.
Spring Denim. Lots of great choices in lightweight denim that drape your body nicely but won’t make you overheated. Think pretty denim dresses, ruffle chambray tops, embroidered jeans… and of course cropped pants. Ankle-length cropped jeans (cut that way or rolled at the hem) are an easy, comfortable way to update your wardrobe and are available in many silhouettes.
Modern Retro. This means combining looks from past fashion eras with a good dose of Modern. Right now the 70’s and 90’s feel strong, but you can make any look your own. Some of the things I’m seeing tie into the 50’s and 60’s, like
– Ruffles: fluttery skirts and shirts are available, one shoulder tops with one strong ruffle are on trend too
– Checks: Whether black and white, or bold and bright, checks are very “in”. They can be sophisticated in a gingham pattern or done in a more feminine, almost preppy look
Shoes and Accessories:
Mules and slides are back! Block heeled mules are a comfortable and trendy choice for Spring. The loafer mule is back too, and who can forget peep-toe booties and flat sandal slides? All are in and are great looks for Spring and Summer (and just a side note to check out my “Ask Suzanne” column on how to best wear shoes with cropped jeans or pants).
Other fun accessories this season are top handle bags and crossbody bags in stripes, florals and spring colors
make-up finds
As the years go by I find myself still loving make up but drawn to wearing a little bit less. However, I felt a strong urge to leave my neutral lips behind for the Spring/Summer season and do a vivid but wearable pink. My new favorite is Clinique lipstick in Sweet Pop.
